Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 810 - Public Utilities Commission
Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 810 is entirely dedicated to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The Rhode Island PUC, along with the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC), forms the regulatory framework for essential services in the state.
The PUC's primary duty is to "supervise, regulate, and make orders governing the conduct of companies offering to the public in intrastate commerce energy, communication, and transportation services and water supplies for the purpose of increasing and maintaining the efficienc1y of such companies, and protecting the public against the imposition of improper and unreasonable rates" (as per Rhode Island general laws, Title 39).
Title 810 of the Rhode Island Code of Regulations provides the detailed rules and procedures for how the PUC fulfills this mission. It's structured into chapters, each addressing specific aspects of utility regulation:
Chapter 00 - General Administration:
This chapter covers the foundational rules for the PUC's operations. This would include its rules of practice and procedure for formal cases, hearings, investigations, filing requirements, definitions of terms used throughout the regulations, and general administrative policies.
Chapter 10 - Consumer Protection:
This is a crucial chapter for consumers. It outlines regulations designed to protect utility customers, covering areas such as:
Billing practices: Rules for accurate billing, payment options, and handling billing disputes.
Termination of service: Strict guidelines on when and how a utility can terminate service, including notice requirements, special protections for vulnerable customers (e.g., elderly, disabled, seriously ill, or those eligible for LIHEAP), and conditions for reconnection.
Customer service standards: Requirements for utility companies regarding customer inquiries, complaints, and general service quality.
Residential Payment Plans: Regulations for customers to enter into payment arrangements to manage outstanding bills.
Chapter 20 - Telecommunications:
This chapter specifically regulates telecommunications services (e.g., telephone, potentially aspects of cable TV and broadband, though cable TV also falls under the DPUC). It would cover topics like:
Interconnection: Rules for how different telecommunications carriers connect their networks.
Wholesale discounts: Regulations related to "avoided cost" for developing wholesale discounts from retail rates for competitors.
Quality of service.
Consumer protections specific to telecom.
Chapter 30 - Gas:
This chapter contains specific regulations for natural gas utilities, including:
Rates and tariffs: How gas companies set and change their rates.
Safety standards: Regulations for gas pipelines, infrastructure, and operations to ensure public safety.
Service quality and reliability.
Demand-Side Management (DSM) programs: Rules for energy efficiency and conservation programs offered by gas companies.
Chapter 40 - Electric:
This is another significant chapter, regulating electric utilities. It covers:
Rates and tariffs: Rules for electric rates, including the "price to compare" for competitive electricity supply.
Service and reliability standards.
Renewable Energy Standard (RES): Detailed regulations for implementing and ensuring compliance with the state's renewable energy mandates, including alternative compliance payment rates.
Demand-Side Management (DSM) and Energy Efficiency Programs: Rules for electric utility programs aimed at reducing energy consumption.
Electric restructuring: Regulations related to the competitive electricity market and customer choice.
Chapter 50 - Products:
This chapter might cover general regulations related to utility products or services that don't fit neatly into the other categories, or could be a placeholder for future specific product regulations.
Key Functions of the PUC Reflected in Title 810:
Rate Setting: Reviewing and approving utility rates to ensure they are just, reasonable, and non-discriminatory, balancing consumer affordability with the utility's need to recover costs and invest.
Service Quality Oversight: Ensuring utilities provide safe, adequate, and reliable service.
Consumer Protection: Safeguarding customer rights and providing mechanisms for dispute resolution.
Infrastructure Investment: Reviewing and approving utility infrastructure projects.
Promoting Energy Efficiency and Renewables: Implementing state energy policy goals through utility programs and standards.
Competition Oversight: Regulating competitive markets where they exist (e.g., electricity supply, telecommunications).
In essence, Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 810 is the practical handbook for anyone operating as a public utility in Rhode Island or for consumers who receive services from these utilities, providing the detailed rules that implement the broader statutory mandates found in Rhode Island General Laws Title 39.
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